GirdlerSulfidVerfahren

The Girdler Sulfid Verfahren, often abbreviated as GSV, is a chemical process used for the purification of hydrogen sulfide from various industrial gas streams. Developed by the Girdler Corporation, this method is particularly effective in removing H2S from synthesis gas, natural gas, and refinery gas. The core of the process involves the use of an aqueous solution of potassium carbonate (K2CO3) as the absorbent.

In the GSV, the sour gas containing hydrogen sulfide is contacted with the potassium carbonate solution in an absorption tower. Hydrogen sulfide, being a weak acid, reacts with potassium carbonate to form potassium bisulfide (KHSO3) and potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3). This reaction is reversible, and the solubility of H2S in the potassium carbonate solution is a key factor in the process efficiency.

The rich absorbent solution, now containing the absorbed hydrogen sulfide, is then sent to a stripping tower. Here, the solution is heated, typically by steam, which reverses the absorption reaction and releases the hydrogen sulfide gas. The regenerated lean potassium carbonate solution is then recycled back to the absorption tower, making the process continuous and economically viable. The released hydrogen sulfide can then be further processed, for example, in a Claus plant to produce elemental sulfur. The GSV is known for its selectivity in removing H2S, especially in the presence of other acid gases like carbon dioxide, although at higher temperatures or pressures, CO2 can also be absorbed.